Iraqi army reports that a member of Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Units was killed in a blast at a base

An explosion at the Kalsu military base in Iraq has left one member of the Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) dead and eight others injured, according to the Iraqi army. The PMU, a predominantly Shiite Iranian-backed paramilitary force, was responsible for the site where the explosion occurred.

The cause of the blast is still unknown, and both Israeli and US officials have denied involvement. The explosion, which occurred at 1 a.m. local time, also caused material losses at the base, which serves as a headquarters for the Iraqi army and police.

The Iraqi army stated that there were no drones or planes in the air at the time of the explosion and has launched an investigation into the incident. The PMU confirmed the location of the blast and stated that investigators are currently at the site.

The blast comes amidst high tension in the Middle East, with Israel engaged in conflict with Hamas in Gaza and carrying out a military strike on Iran. Tit-for-tat strikes between Israel and Iran have escalated the long-standing shadow war between the two countries.

The PMU, recognized as a government entity in Iraq, operates alongside the Iraqi military and includes various forces such as Kataib Hezbollah. The organization is closely linked to Iran-aligned Shiite blocs that have dominated politics in Iraq for years.